Construction on Health Centre Helipad Expected to Start in Summer, Completed by 2018

The Northern Lights Regional Health Centre is close to starting construction on its helipad.

On Thursday, members of Alberta Health Services met with the Wood Buffalo Health Advisory Council where the design of the heliport was discussed.

The landing spot would be at the North Leading Dock Area located at the rear of the hospital. The pad, along with the walkway, would be created between 30-40 feet off the ground, matching the elevation of the hospital.

The pad itself would be 60 feet by 60 feet.

Crews will have easy access to the emergency department, ICU, and operating rooms.

Right now, when a person needs to be medevaced, helicopters land at the Fort McMurray airport then a ground ambulance transports the patient to the hospital.

Depending on permits, construction would start in late August, early September, being finished sometime in 2018.

To ensure everyone is onboard with the project, an open house will be held on May 25, giving residents a chance to learn more and express their concerns.

Alberta Health Services notes they don’t expect many complaints but they do believe some may be wary of the construction and helicopters landing near schools and homes.

Two info sessions will be held on Thursday, in the health centre’s cafeteria, going from 3 p.m. – 5 p.m. and again from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.